BELFAST — Colburn Shoe Store, the oldest shoe store in America, is asking the community to help fill their window for their fourth annual Sock Drive. Colburn’s partnership with the United Way has collected 18,000 pairs of since the sock drive began in 2020.

“So far, each year outperforms the prior and with generosity, they can keep that streak going,” said Colburn Shoe, in a news release.

There were 4,000 pairs donated in 2020, 6,000 in 2021, and 8,000 in 2022.

“I have no idea how we can top the 8,000 pair that were donated last year but we are up for the challenge and will figure it out it when we do,” said Owner Colby Horne, in the release. “I’m not aware of any official records for a sock drive but if there was one, we want to break it!”

Located on Main Street in Belfast, the sock collection can be seen growing daily in the front window. A digital marquee was added in 2022 to keep the count visible and to inspire generosity in locals and visitors. When the drive kicked off this year, there were already seventy-four pairs donated to the collection.

Socks will be collected until mid-December when they will be donated through the United Way, local schools, and local charities.

There are several ways that you can donate:

1. Drop off at the store.
2. Mail socks to the store (this works well if you want to order online).
3. Donate money – (Horne promises to stretch every dollar as far as it will go)

Donations can be mailed to Colburn Shoe Store, 79 Main Street, Belfast, ME 04915. Or if you prefer, you can make a cash donation at colburnshoe.com/Shop-Online.